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The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

His words were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But Joshua, explained his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent exits the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his retort.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a bout many consider a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with the underdog adopting a bizarre pose before the champion stayed calm and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual aspect of this bout has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul insisted.

The former champion, sporting a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”

He has stated on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest loss of his career.”

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”